The 1864 Society

The 1864 Society, named for the year Swarthmore College was founded, celebrates the generosity of alumni, parents, and friends who make a leadership gift to the College each year.

Swarthmore has educated citizens and leaders to use their knowledge to improve the world, lead in professions, enjoy a productive intellectual life, support arts and culture, and sustain physical well-being through engagement in athletics and other wellness activities. Swarthmore alumni provide living testimony to the success of the single, determined focus to educate some of the most intelligent and creative young people in the world.

The mission of The 1864 Society at Swarthmore College is to:

Promote active interest and participation in the life of the College among alumni, parents, and friends

Encourage an exemplary standard of giving in support of the College

Provide opportunitiesfor Society members to engage with College leaders

Philanthropic support from members of The 1864 Society benefits every student and faculty member. Levels of giving within the Society memorialize early advocates of the College whose generosity laid the foundation for the exceptional institution we know today.